Santa Monica Auctions To Take Final Bow This Weekend

Posted Jun. 6, 2012, 2:41 am

Kathy Leonardo / Mirror Contributor

The MTA will forever change the face of Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica. On Saturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10, Santa Monica Auctions is destined to take its final bow as it holds a blowout final auction in its current space.

The proposed MTA plan will demolish the C building, which is currently home to Track 16, The Robert Berman Gallery, and Santa Monica Auctions.

Gallery owner Robert Berman said he was sad to lose this longtime space.

“We knew it was coming, but thought it would not happen for quite some time,” Berman said. “We were shocked quite frankly when we were told that we had to be out by August.”

For the past 18 years, art lovers and collectors have grown accustomed to the Santa Monica Auctions’ annual event, which is run by Robert Berman.

This yearly outdoor live auction has become a fixture in the now ever popular Bergamot Station Arts Center, providing an exclusive low cost alternative to acquiring collectible works by renowned artists.

Showcasing mid-career and established Los Angeles artists of all mediums including painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, multiples and prints, Santa Monica Auctions has been independently owned and operated for 26 years.

Notable collectors and art lovers alike are anticipating this farewell outdoor live auction, taking place just steps from the doomed C building.

Photographer and director Michael Grecco said he has attended this LA “art happening” for the past six years.

“I love the auction because of the eclectic mix of art and photography,” Grecco said.

Another annual attendee and collector who is disappointed the auction is disappearing is Aldis Browne of Aldis Browne Fine Arts, Inc.

“Robert Berman’s Santa Monica Auctions are carved out of the European tradition wherein a knowledgeable dealer reflects his taste and expertise in every sale he mounts,” Browne said.

Several hundred people are expected to attend this historic final auction on Saturday, June 9 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, June 10 at 1 p.m.

Renowned works such as a 1970’s silkscreen by Andy Warhol of Mick Jagger (signed by both) will be included in this year’s auction.

Another highlight is the very rare complete set of five hand pulled four-color silkscreens by rock icon David Bowie. Also included are works by Ed Kienholz, David Hockney, Raymond Pettibon, Pablo Picasso and more.

Live-internet bidding will be available at www.liveauctioneers.com, as well as on an electronic catalogue.

The preview is currently on display at Gallery C2. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. There will be a late night preview on Friday, June 8 until 9 p.m.

Grecco, like many others, is saddened by the demise of this annual live auction.

“The space and the entire environment is so special,” he said.

When asked if he has his eye on anything in particular this year, he laughs and replies, “Of course, but I’m not going to tell you.”

For more information, contact Santa Monica Auctions at info@smauctions.com or 310.315.1937.